Phenotype, Genotype, Homozygous, Heterozygous, Punnett squares

dominant allele

"Stronger". The characteristic always shows in the organism's phenotype. The dominant trait masks the recessive trait.

recessive allele

"Weaker" When there is no dominant allele present the recessive trait is shown in the phenotype.

Punnett square

A chart that shows all the possible combinations of alleles that can occur from a genetic cross.

hybrid

Also known as heterozygous (Bb). An organism that has two different alleles for a given trait. A cross between two purebred generations or hybrid and purebred generations.

genotype

An organism's genetic makeup or allele combinations (example: BB, Bb or bb).

phenotype

An organism's physical appearance, or visible traits / characteristics.

heterozygous

Having two different alleles on a gene for a given trait or characteristic. (hybrid)

heterozygous dominant

Having two different alleles one is dominant and the other is recessive (Bb). The dominant trait is shown in the phenotype.

homozygous

Having two identical (same) alleles on a gene for a given trait or characteristic. (purebred)

homozygous dominant

Having two identical alleles on a gene which are dominant for the trait.

homozygous recessive

Having two identical alleles on a gene which are recessive for the trait

allele

The different forms of a gene. One comes from the male and the other from the female. Dominant shown with capital letters; recessive with small letters.

gene

The factors that control traits or characteristics (two alleles).

Karyotype

The number and physical appearance of chromosomes in the nucleus. Helps identify genetic disorders by helping researchers identify abnormal chromosomes or numbers of chromosomes.

Heredity

The passing of physical characteristics from parents to their offspring or young.